Lisbon Itinerary: How to Spend 3 Days

Lisbon spills over seven hills in pastel tiles, rattling trams, and ocean light. Three days lets you wander its oldest quarters and escape to a fairytale town nearby.

Day 1: Alfama and Baixa

Begin in Alfama, the city's oldest district, climbing its tangled lanes to São Jorge Castle for sweeping views over the red rooftops and the Tagus River. Ride the vintage Tram 28 part of the way to save your legs. Down in the flat Baixa quarter, browse the grand plazas and mosaic pavements. For lunch, try grilled bacalhau (salt cod) or a hearty bifana pork sandwich. In the evening, find a small fado house and listen to Portugal's soulful music over dinner. Menus are frequently only in Portuguese, so photographing one to translate helps you order with ease.

Day 2: Belém

Take a tram or train west to Belém, the riverside district of explorers. Tour the ornate Jerónimos Monastery and the waterfront Belém Tower, both wonders of Manueline architecture. Don't miss the original pastéis de Belém, warm custard tarts dusted with cinnamon. In the afternoon, visit the modern MAAT museum or stroll along the river to the Monument to the Discoveries. For lunch, try caldo verde soup or grilled sardines. Lisbon's trams and Metro make getting around simple with a rechargeable Viva Viagem card.

Day 3: Sintra Day Trip

Catch an early train from Rossio station to Sintra, a misty hill town of palaces and gardens. Visit the colorful Pena Palace perched above the forest, then explore the romantic Quinta da Regaleira with its initiation well and hidden tunnels. Buses connect the sights, but lines grow long, so start early. For lunch, sample a travesseiro pastry or a regional cheese plate. Return to Lisbon by evening for a final glass of vinho verde and a seafood dinner.

A few tips: wear sturdy shoes for the hills and cobblestones, and validate transit cards before boarding. With this loop, you'll capture Lisbon's faded grandeur, riverside calm, and the storybook magic of Sintra.